Texas Democrats Go After Same-Sex Marriage Ban

Following their electoral defeat last week with a gubernatorial candidate running on abortion issues, Texas Democrats are now trying to overturn the Lone Star State’s ban on gay marriage.

Rafael Anchia, who represents the Dallas area in the lower house of the Texas legislature, and Juan Hinojosa, a member of the Texas Senate from McAllen, filed bills this week to begin the process of repealing a 2005 amendment to the state constitution that outlaws same-sex marriage. The amendment was supported by 76 percent of voters.

"Marriage says 'we are a family' in a way that no other word does," Anchia said on his Facebook page Monday.

"Marriage strengthens families and gives couples the tools and security they need to build a life together."

Hinojosa, whose daughter is gay, added, "All Texas couples should be allowed the freedom to marry, build a family, care for those they love, and be treated with dignity and respect. We are all equals — each of us only wanting to take care of our families and our children. We cannot deny someone that right. "

Their bills would deal with legal language in the Texas code, while two other Democrats — Garnet Coleman, a Houston member of the House of Representatives, and Jose Rodriguez, a senator from El Paso — introduced bills that call for a referendum that would repeal the constitutional ban.

Opponents of gay marriage say the Democrats have little chance of getting the measures through the Republican-dominated state legislature.

A federal court struck down the state’s ban in February, and an appellate court is due to consider that decision in January.

Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott, the Republican who won the governor’s race last week, says there are "good, well-meaning people on both sides" of the debate, but the federal court decision should be struck down.